Studying by distance education

USQ is an international leader in off-campus or distance education. Approximately 17,000 (or 75%) of USQ's students are enjoying the benefits of off-campus study. 

A specialist Distance and e-Learning Centre (DEC), provides students from Australia and around the world with the opportunity to study the same programs and obtain the same awards as those studied by on-campus students regardless of location.

Distance education allows you to study and continue meeting other lifetime commitments, such as work, family or travel. USQ currently provides off-campus education for students in more than 80 countries across all continents.

Off-campus study involves students accessing study packages sent in the mail or delivered via the internet. Assessment is usually through submission of assignments by post or email, and examinations at centres around Australia in other countries. Students may also choose to attend a graduation ceremony on-campus or overseas. We provide off-campus students with support during their study; international students are assisted by USQ International.

USQ is recognised both nationally and internationally for its outstanding distance education programs.USQ was the inaugural winner of the International Council for Open and Distance Learning (ICDE) prize for institutional excellence for its global education initiatives and expertise in providing flexible learning opportunities around the world. In addition, USQ's Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Global Learning), Professor Jim Taylor, is President of the ICDE, which has representatives drawn from 142 countries worldwide.

International students

International students can choose to study by distance directly with USQ in Australia or by supported distance with a USQ Education Partner or Support Office, if one operates in your country.
USQ has a global network of education partners and support offices in selected countries to provide services and tutorials to support your studies. In some cases, these offices are linked to a local university or college which makes its facilities available to USQ students.

USQ education partners recruit and offer administrative services and teaching support to enrolled USQ students onshore or offshore. Services from a USQ education partner may include:

• enquiry and course advice
• assistance with enrolment and changes to your enrolment
• financial - receipt of fees
• tutorial and study groups
• distribution, exchange and replacement of study materials
• ordering and distribution of textbooks
• access to library facilities
• assignment despatch, coordination of exam centres
• live video conferences, enabling you and your lecturers to see each other and hold discussions.

If you live in a country that does not have an Education Partner, you can contact us at our Toowoomba campus. Staff at USQ International are available between 8.45am and 5.00pm (AEST).